Guwahati, Dec 16 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, stated on Tuesday that the state’s women-focused government programs in recent years have markedly improved their dignity, security, and economic independence.

While inaugurating the distribution of entrepreneurship seed capital cheques under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA) in the Lamding and Barpeta Assembly constituencies, the Chief Minister asserted that this scheme is a testament to the government’s commitment to bolster Assam’s economy through women-led business initiatives.

Speaking to a large assembly of women entrepreneurs at the Srimanta Sankardeva Nagar playground in Hojai, Sarma noted that cheques under the MMUA have already been disbursed to nearly 12 lakh women across 50 Assembly constituencies, with plans to finalize distribution in all constituencies by February 15 next year.

In this initial phase, the government aims to provide Rs 10,000 each to 32 lakh women, at an estimated cost of Rs 3,200 crore.

“For the first time since Independence, such a substantial initiative has been launched specifically for women,” Sarma remarked, emphasizing the goal to financially empower women and place them at the forefront of Assam’s development narrative.

He mentioned that the government has implemented several measures to ensure women can live with dignity, including rigorous actions against crimes, initiatives to combat child marriage, and efforts to support girls’ education.

Citing programs like Nijut Moina, free admissions, cycles for Class IX students, and scooters for high-achieving higher secondary students, the Chief Minister highlighted how these initiatives have broadened prospects for young girls.

Sarma also pointed out the expansion of the Orunodoi scheme, Assam’s flagship welfare program for women, where monthly assistance has increased from Rs 830 to Rs 1,250, with the number of beneficiaries growing from 18 lakh to nearly 40 lakh. Additionally, the widow's pension has been raised to Rs 1,250 per month.

Encouraging beneficiaries to aspire to become “Lakhpati Baideu,” the Chief Minister explained that the initial Rs 10,000 assistance is intended to kickstart their journey toward self-sufficiency, with possibilities for greater financial support of Rs 25,000 and Rs 50,000 in subsequent phases for those who use the funds wisely.

Later, while engaging with beneficiaries in Barpeta, Sarma noted that this scheme aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of creating three crore Lakhpati Didis across the country, aiming for 40 lakh such women in Assam.

He also disclosed that the historic Vrindabani Vastra currently housed in a museum in London will be returned to Assam for an exhibition in 2027, showcasing the state’s rich textile heritage.